Making and sticking to your to-do list can be very tedious and difficult to do. To-do lists seem complicated because we have to set due dates and prioritize one task over another depending on what we deem most important at that moment.

Defining Tasks

To start with this topic, we first need to define word “task.” In simple terms, task presents an action that needs to be completed now or later. We describe tasks in many different ways, assigning it to a larger project, with actions that need to be done in order for the task to be completed. Our tasks have abandoned one-sentence rule where we numerically ordered our tasks without specific details. By writing actions that will ultimately lead to the task completion, it is easier for us to trace our progress and gain short-term sense of accomplishment as we get closer to our final goal.

It turns out that task management is extremely important. In today’s world, success comes as a result of a clear goal and action taken towards that goal. If you don’t have a list of tasks, then you cannot take directed action towards your goal. Tasks are great because they allow us to write our ideas and thoughts that will lead to our goals. Many ideas have been forgotten simply because people didn’t write them down immediately. Once you write down an idea, use actionable words that will create tasks and guarantee your long-term success. This also improves your organizational and time management skills, simply because you’re organizing yourself and your time, which is very challenging.

These actionable tasks also help us to keep ourselves in check and make sure we’re not creating overwhelming tasks but also that we’re not slacking. The simplest rule to preent you from creating a complicated and long task list, is to look at your tasks. If any of them can be done in less than two minutes, make sure to do those tasks immediately. Otherwise, it will just clutter your to-do list and make you more anxious once you see the length of your tasks.

This is the part where most people struggle. It is important to recognize what tasks should be completed first. Also, this is the part that is unique to each person. We all have different lives and priorities that other people might not care about. This is why it’s crucial for you to think well about your tasks and the priority of each.

You can organize your tasks by having a variety of task groups. For example, a category named “personal projects” could refer to your current projects within your household. This category can range from “read a book” to “redecorate the master room.” Errands should be in a separate category because these tasks fall into everyday repetitive tasks. Another category could include “private events” where you can place family trips, birthday celebration, special family dinner night, etc. In case if you have a lot more ideas, you can have a category that reflects ideas that are not a priority but you would like to have them completed soon.

Finally, all of the tasks you set for yourself should have a realistic time period for completion. Avoid writing long to-do lists for a short period of time because these lengthy lists are more likely to bring you anxiety rather than productivity. If you have a highly complex task to complete, break it down into smaller tasks. Make sure your task list looks appealing and not cluttered. Use visuals to make your to-do list look more appealing.